Dean Castle

Ayrshire

Dean Castle was the home and stronghold of the Boyd Family for over 400 years. Originally known as Kilmarnock Castle, the name change reflects the surroundings that the Castle sits in, as dean is a traditional Scottish word for a wooded valley. The Keep, dating from around 1350 and restored in 1908, houses outstanding displays that tell the story of the Boyd family and medieval life, as well as East Ayrshire’s stunning collection of arms and armour

The 15^th century Palace rebuilt from ruins by the 8th Lord Howard de Walden in the 1930s. This building explores the Howard de Walden family and showcases East Ayrshire’s internationally significant collection of medieval musical instruments.

From the exquisite craftsmanship and rarity of the musical instrument collection to the Viking sword that fires the imagination, the Dean Castle collections - as well as the Castle itself – represents over 1,000 years of the history of Ayrshire, its people and the story of Scotland.

Facilities

• Disabled WC
• WC
• Refreshments
• Events For Children
• Parking
• Limited Access